What is the Living Wage?
The Living Wage movement is made up of nearly two dozen U.S. cities and counties which have set wage and benefit standards for low-wage earning contract employees. Living Wage ordinances vary across the country in their adoption, nature, and requirements, but most require contractors which do business with city or county governments to pay the wage and/or benefit standards set forth. Most ordinances are passed by city councils or county board commissions, but some have been adopted through ballot initiative.

Who started the living wage?
Most living wage campaigns nationwide make up a broad coalition of trade unionists, religious and community leaders, and other working professionals. People interested in organizing a living wage campaign often start by contacting local labor, faith, or community councils, as well as national groups listed below.